Startup Accelerator translates research outcomes into ventures that deliver solutions for health, society, and the environment. Unlike the longer research timelines of the scientific Streams, it operates as a dynamic, one-year launchpad for researchers and entrepreneurs with the intent to commercialize. Through annual bootcamps, mentorship, and international partnerships, the Stream has already onboarded multiple startup teams, some of which are now incorporated and engaged in regulatory and market expansion. Its training programs foster entrepreneurial skills while building bridges to investors, industry, and government partners. By integrating science with business development, the Stream ensures that discoveries are not confined to the lab but become scalable products and services. In doing so, it positions Okinawa as a hub for bioconvergence-driven innovation and strengthens OIST’s mission of contributing both locally and globally.
R&D Leader
Gil Granot-Mayer（OIST, Executive Vice President for Innovation and Outreach, Vice CEO）
Project
Development of a business development platform through the "Startup Accelerator”
• Develop a platform for startup creation grounded in bioconvergence R&D, serving as a foundation for commercialization and social implementation.
• Foster a hybrid startup creation model by engaging international entrepreneurs and investors, strengthening OIST’s role as a global hub.
• Build robust entrepreneurship education in collaboration with business schools and industry leaders, equipping founders with the skills to scale globally.
• Establish industry networks and secure investment, connecting startups with sponsors, testing facilities, mentors, and investors to ensure long-term sustainability.
• Provide proof-of-concept pathways that enable researchers to validate, refine, and launch solutions that directly impact society.
PI: Gil Granot-Mayer (Leader)
The OIST Innovation Accelerator is a comprehensive program for early-stage deep technology startups, combining entrepreneurship training, competitive bootcamp activities, and incubation support. Startups worldwide compete for a year-long residency at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) in Japan. Participants gain access to educational resources, networking opportunities, personalized coaching, and advanced research facilities at OIST. The program equips deeptech startups with the time and resources needed to transition their innovations from the lab to the market.
